Friday Feb 20, 2026
Friday Feb 20, 2026
Saturday, 14 February 2026 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
The United States registered their first victory of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup with a commanding 93-run win over the Netherlands on Thursday, producing a balanced display with both bat and ball to revive their campaign after two early defeats.
Opting to bat, the USA set the tone early and compiled a formidable 196 for 6 in their allotted 20 overs. Saiteja Mukkamalla led the charge with 79 off 51 deliveries, blending measured stroke play with acceleration when required. His innings provided the backbone of the total.
Captain Monank Patel contributed 36, anchoring the middle phase and ensuring continuity after the loss of early wickets. The momentum gathered pace in the closing overs, as Shubham Ranjane struck an unbeaten 48 from just 24 balls, lifting the innings with a late flourish that pushed the score well beyond the Netherlands’ reach.
Bas de Leede was the most effective of the Dutch bowlers, finishing with three wickets, but struggled for sustained support as the USA’s middle and lower order capitalised.
In reply, the Netherlands faltered from the outset. Chasing 197, they were dismissed for 103 in 15.5 overs, unable to establish partnerships as wickets fell at regular intervals. De Leede top-scored with 23, but no other batter managed to build a meaningful innings.
Left-arm spinner Harmeet Singh turned the contest decisively in the USA’s favour, claiming four wickets as the Dutch middle order collapsed under pressure.
The comprehensive margin of victory boosts the United States’ net run rate and keeps their qualification hopes alive in the tournament.
